Clay Oven
Winnipeg has many wonderful Indian restaurants. Both Taste of India and India Palace have great reputations and I have to admit that for as long as I’ve intended to try them out-I never have. On the other hand I have enjoyed Ivory, Charisma and East India Company. On my hit list is Red Fort Tandoor House where I understand they grind their spices daily.
A number of features make the Clay Oven a pleasant choice on a frosty January evening: it is adjacent to Indigo (where my husband and I spent the rest of our date night), it is next door to a Starbucks where we grabbed a post-dinner coffee and if you have any room left…also next to a Marble Slab Creamery (we did not have any room left).
The decor was surprizingly sleek and comfortable at the same time. Charcoal walls and fabric dividers (for privacy) set the scene and we nestled into a bench seat lined with tangerine cushions. We were in a strip mall but you would never know it once inside.
The hospitality was outstanding with many cheerful faces bustling around the open kitchen. And the food….delicious! We shared a Maharajah Sizzler which allowed us to sample tiger prawns, pan fried scallops, Chicken Tikka and Saffron Malai Tikka with fresh seared vegetables. We really enjoyed the mint/yogurt sauce for dipping. It was likely intended for the fish and chicken but the Naan was also enhanced by the flavour. This is served with Basmati rice and would have been enough for a shared meal. We also ordered an assorted Naan basket and now have enough left overs for lunch. I loved the garlic Naan but especially the Mozzarella Naan. I appreciate the hoppie taste of a Indian beer and was delighted that they offer Kingfisher at the top of their imported list.
The menu starts with a Spice Primer (the benefits of Indian spices)-who knew! The place was bustling with an equal number of people stopping in to pick up supper to go.
Here’s a version of the Mint Yogurt Sauce: In a small bowl or blender, stir together 1/2 c plain yogurt, 2 sprigs of fresh chopped mint, 1 t sugar, 1 t salt and 1/4 t cayenne until well blended. Serve immediately or chill for a while to let the flavors come together.
The Clay Oven is owned by my friend Anita. She used to be my hairdresser but left hairdressing to open the restaurant with her husband. I love to go and see her there. She is usually the hostess. Red headed gal with a British accent. Her son and daughter both work in the restaurant as well.
I knew you had a connection, but could not remember what it was. Did not see Anita there last night. I likely did see her husband. I would love to meet her and her kids. They have a wonderful business.
Let’s you and I go for dinner sometime and I’ll introduce you.